You are the brightest dream I’ve ever had, illuminating my dark night sky. I’ve felt touched time and time again, and even when it hurts, I will still smile.

Old Master Zhang heard the words of the child he cherished most. His heart was filled with relief, even though what was said was somewhat unrealistic. Yet, ripples of emotion stirred within him. Deep down, he clearly understood what he truly craved for—this warmth. He was grateful to have the opportunity to experience such warmth, but he finally realized that what he cherished most wasn’t money or profits. What mattered most was whether his family was healthy and happy, and he was fortunate beyond words to have such a perfect family in his lifetime.

Nothing is more important than his family’s happiness. He should thank heaven for helping him understand this perspective sooner; otherwise, he would regret it for the rest of his life. He could not bear the thought of losing another loved one after losing his most beloved son. Would life in shambles ever return to its original state?

"Silly child, you’re still so young. How can you claim to be a strong man? Do you know there are many things you’ll still have to experience and numerous choices to face? Perhaps, in the future, you won’t wish to be a strong man but rather a little child protected by your family."

Nothing is absolute. Don’t think what you’ve done is truly great. Believe that everything you do, while it may not seem perfect to others, will be your greatest comfort in life!

Zhang Yichen knew why his grandpa said these words, but he did not make it explicit. He wanted his grandpa to understand that often, mere words aren’t enough. Real action is needed to prove a point and educate children, which would have different results.

Everyone knew Old Master Zhang’s good intentions, yet no one pointed out the key issue. They wanted everyone to have a different life. Each person’s path is chosen by themselves, not prearranged. Every step should be pondered over, and decisions should never be made on a whim that leads to lifelong regret.

"Grandpa, although I don’t fully understand your words, I do know in my heart!

Even though I’m not a man now, I will definitely grow up. When I do, I will be a dignified man who protects you and my parents, ensuring those I care about never get hurt. That is what a real man should do.

I believe that one day, with my intelligence, I will step by step achieve the pinnacle of life. I will make those who once underestimated and abandoned me regret their decisions. I will ensure they clearly remember the person they abandoned, the one they looked down on, became the king among them. I’ll unsettle everyone’s hearts and make them understand that once a decision is made, there’s no turning back in life!

I am well aware that as long as I make my own decisions, no matter the challenges I face in the future, I must walk the path I’ve chosen step by step, as that’s truly completing what it means to be a Zhang Family member.

Being part of the Zhang Family signifies that for the rest of my life, I’ll regard the family’s honor as my own. I will uphold the Zhang Family’s century-old reputation and not let anyone critique us. I understand that appearances mean a lot to you, but your willingness to sacrifice your dignity for us deeply touches me. I am not unfeeling. My actions will earn everyone’s approval. I want to make it clear that even if I make mistakes, they won’t be due to carelessness, but rather because I want to protect those I care about."

"Grandpa, let’s stop standing at the door saying these things and quickly go inside, where it’s warmer. The cold outside is too much for your body. Believe me, our family living happily together is what truly matters. Don’t worry about how others perceive or think of us. Just be the truest version of yourself, standing firm. Others should adapt to us rather than us constantly bending over backwards to suit them!"

In truth, Old Master Zhang felt immensely gratified. His family had finally come together in happiness, realizing the life he had longed for—a peaceful and content old age. It had arrived unexpectedly, stirring excitement and joy within his heart.

For an old person, the ultimate desire is simply to have beloved ones by their side, witnessing the family’s return to harmony and safety. A life of tranquility is what a lifetime of struggles sought to achieve. However, if a moment of carelessness brings greater harm to his family, how should his heart navigate such predicament?

A happy family, seeking to maintain its happiness, isn’t easy. The only way is to repeatedly keep what matters most close by—a daunting task for someone his age. Yet, heaven had been kind to grant him this life. In gratitude for the love granted by heaven, he knew all too well that this couldn’t last forever. Eventually, he would leave behind those he cherished. But how to ensure they remain hopeful after his departure?

You could have found a better confidant, without the need to face fears with me.